Pennitöns

Pennitöns was an ultra-marathon event held annually in Sweden from 1997 to 2005. The competition took place in the winter months and consisted of running through the mountains on snow-covered terrain. The distance of the event varied each year but typically ranged from 100 to 300 kilometers.

The name "Pennitöns" translates to "Nearest Utopia" in English, which is a reference to the challenging and seemingly impossible nature of the event. The event organizers designed the route to be the most difficult course possible, with steep climbs and variable conditions such as icy roads, snowstorms, and chest-deep snow.

The event started in the small town of Arvika in western Sweden and ended at a predetermined location several hours away, often in a different city. Runners navigated through local farms, along rural roads, and into the Swedish wilderness, where they would encounter unmapped routes and harsh winter conditions. The minimum required time for participants to complete the course was around 8 days, although finishers usually took closer to 14 days.

The Pennitöns ultra-marathon was popular among experienced ultra-runners and adventurers due to its extreme nature. The event provided a truly immersive experience in the Swedish wilderness, allowing participants to challenge themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. Although the event has been discontinued, it remains a legendary event among the ultra-running community for its sheer length and difficulty.